Itinerary Planner

The perfect place to rediscover - Coniston & The West Coast

Coniston and the West Coast of Cumbria offers a chance to explore the beautiful area around Coniston Water and then over towards the Cumbrian Coast, taking in a good helping of history and heritage along the way.

Read on for our suggestion for a great day out in this wonderful part of the county. For up-to-date information, we strongly advise that you visit the websites of the below sites and businesses. Always book ahead, please observe social distancing and stay safe at all times.
 

MORNING – STEAM YACHT GONDOLA AND BRANTWOOD

Arrive at Coniston Pier and board the famous Steam Yacht Gondola. A rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht on Coniston Water, Steam Yacht Gondola is the unrivalled sailing experience of the Lake District. Boasting the charm of travel once experienced by wealthy Victorians, you can cruise in style in the Gondola’s opulent saloons or relax on her open-air decks as she glides across the lake. Watch the gleaming steam engine and take in the spectacular scenery of the Coniston Fells whilst listening to the crew’s commentary.

Following a scenic cruise around the lake, you will arrive at the stop for Brantwood. At Brantwood's Terrace Coffee House & Restaurant, everything is cooked on-site with fresh ingredients - the perfect place to dine. After lunch, explore Brantwood, the home of John Ruskin.

Following lunch, take cruise back to Coniston Pier, then depart for Muncaster Castle. Travel time 45 minutes by car.

AFTERNOON – MUNCASTER CASTLE, LA'AL RATTY AND ESKDALE MILL

With 800 years of history, beautiful gardens, an owl sanctuary, maze and even a resident ghost, Muncaster Castle boasts unrivalled views of the Western Lake District fells. Full of treasures and bursting with history, tales seem to ooze from the castle walls.

Following your visit to Muncaster Castle, make your way to Ravenglass Station for the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, just 5 minutes by car. The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, affectionately known as La’al Ratty, is one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge heritage railways in England. Steam for seven miles through the beautiful Lake District National Park, from the coastline to the mountains with views of the wild fells beyond. The rail journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and ends at Dalegarth Station.

Once you have reached Dalegarth station, if you have time then make your way to Eskdale Mill, just a ten-minute walk from the station. Eskdale Mill is the last remaining working water-powered cornmill in the Lake District National Park. The buildings and their setting create an authentic historic atmosphere, allowing visitors to take a step back in time.